Vacuum air lift systems including a fluidic oscillator

ABSTRACT

A vacuum airlift system for treating an aqueous effluent includes an upflow liquid portion, where the upflow liquid portion is configured to retain a fluid, and a fluid inlet, the fluid inlet being fluidly coupled with the upflow liquid portion, where the fluid inlet is positioned at about a bottom of the upflow liquid portion. The vacuum airlift system can also include a downflow liquid portion, where the downflow liquid portion is fluidly coupled with the upflow liquid portion, and a fluid outlet, the fluid outlet being fluidly coupled with the downflow liquid portion, where the fluid outlet is positioned at about a bottom of the downflow liquid portion. The vacuum airlift system can also include a plurality of aerators fed by one or more fluidic oscillators; the plurality of aerators being coupled to the upflow liquid column.

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation application of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 17/496,372, filed Oct. 7, 2021, which is acontinuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/811,031,filed Mar. 6, 2020, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,161,756, which is acontinuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/182,092,filed Nov. 6, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,618,824, issued Apr. 14, 2020,which is a continuation application that claims priority to U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/660,564, filed Jul. 26, 2017, now U.S. Pat. No.10,233,096, issued Mar. 19, 2019, which claims priority to U.S.Provisional App. No. 62/367,545, filed Jul. 27, 2016, and U.S.Provisional App. No. 62/501,386, filed May 4, 2017, and herebyincorporates the same applications by reference in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Embodiments of the technology relate, in general, to vacuum air lift(VAL) technology and, in particular, to vacuum air lift systemsincorporating a fluidic oscillator, biological filter elements, afluidized bed reactor, a photobioreactor, and/or an independentcirculation and particle extraction system.

BACKGROUND

Under the conditions of aquaculture in recirculated aqueous medium, topromote the growth and health of the fish, it is known that it isbeneficial to control the dissolved gas concentration of dissolvedoxygen, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen.

SUMMARY

Embodiments include a vacuum airlift system for treating an aqueouseffluent including an upflow liquid portion, the upflow liquid portionhaving a top and a bottom, wherein the upflow liquid portion isconfigured to retain a fluid, and a fluid inlet, the fluid inlet beingfluidly coupled with the upflow liquid portion, wherein the fluid inletis positioned at about the bottom of the upflow liquid portion. Thevacuum airlift system can also include a downflow liquid portion, thedownflow liquid portion having a top and a bottom, wherein the downflowliquid portion is fluidly coupled with the upflow liquid portion, and afluid outlet, the fluid outlet being fluidly coupled with the downflowliquid portion, wherein the fluid outlet is positioned at about thebottom of the downflow liquid portion. The vacuum airlift system canalso include a plurality of aerators fed by one or more fluidicoscillators; the plurality of aerators being coupled to the upflowliquid column.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present disclosure will be more readily understood from a detaileddescription of some example embodiments taken in conjunction with thefollowing figures:

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an aquaculture facility usingrecirculated aqueous medium according to one embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of an installation for treating anaqueous effluent according to one embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of a vacuum air lift system having anindependent circulation and particle extraction system according to oneembodiment.

FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of a vacuum air lift system having aplurality of biological film elements according to one embodiment.

FIG. 5 is an alternate embodiment of the vacuum air lift system shown inFIG. 4 .

FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration of a vacuum air lift system having afluidic oscillator according to one embodiment.

FIG. 7A is a top view of an aerator associated with the vacuum air liftsystem of FIG. 6 according to one embodiment.

FIG. 7B is a partial cross-sectional view of the aerator shown in FIG.7A.

FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of an installation associated with aphotobioreactor for treating an aqueous effluent according to oneembodiment.

FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration of the operative cycle of thephotobioreactor shown in FIG. 8 .

FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration of an installation associated with aphotobioreactor for treating an aqueous effluent according to analternate embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a schematic illustration of an installation associated with aphotobioreactor for treating an aqueous effluent according to analternate embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure will now bedescribed to provide an overall understanding of the principles of thestructure, function, and use of the apparatuses, systems, methods, andprocesses disclosed herein. One or more examples of these non-limitingembodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those ofordinary skill in the art will understand that systems and methodsspecifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanyingdrawings are non-limiting embodiments. The features illustrated ordescribed in connection with one non-limiting embodiment may be combinedwith the features of other non-limiting embodiments. Such modificationsand variations are intended to be included within the scope of thepresent disclosure.

Reference throughout the specification to “various embodiments,” “someembodiments,” “one embodiment,” “some example embodiments,” “one exampleembodiment,” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature,structure, or characteristic described in connection with any embodimentis included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases“in various embodiments,” “in some embodiments,” “in one embodiment,”“some example embodiments,” “one example embodiment,” or “in anembodiment” in places throughout the specification are not necessarilyall referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particularfeatures, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitablemanner in one or more embodiments.

Described herein are example embodiments of apparatuses, systems, andmethods for vacuum air lift (VAL) systems. Example embodiments describedherein can improve the functionality of a VAL system. For example, theVAL system can be a plastic or fiberglass structure approximately 12 to16 feet tall, for example, that can include a plurality of verticalconcentric tubes, such as those shown and described herein. In oneexample embodiment, bio-film elements can be incorporated into theupflow and/or downflow elements of a VAL system. In some embodiments, aVAL system can include a fluidic oscillator. In some embodiments, a VALsystem can include a flow management system.

In example embodiments, the outer or down corner tube of a VAL systemcan transition into a vertically configured photobioreactor. A waterinlet can be provided at the bottom of the inner tube and a water outletcan be provided at or near the top of the outer tube. In exampleembodiments this water outlet can be directed into any suitablephotobioreactor.

Air (or other gases) can feed to an inner tube via a micro-bubbleaerator and/or a macro-bubble aerator. Valves can be used to control theairflow through the aerators. A vacuum pump can be connected to aholding tank, where the holding tank can be connected to a cap at thetop of the concentric tubes. Level sensors can be used to control waterlevels within the VAL system. Valves can be used to manage VAL systemairflow and extracted product. In one embodiment, VAL systems can beused to improve the dissolved gas extraction yield of an air lift. Ingeneral, various embodiments can relate to a method for treating anaqueous effluent comprising at least one dissolved gaseous compound, forexample carbon dioxide, and at least partially separating the compoundfrom the effluent in order to obtain a treated aqueous phase. Thedepleted aqueous phase may be depleted of the undesirable compound.

Embodiments of a VAL system in accordance with versions described hereincan include establishing an upflow liquid column of an aqueous effluent.A gas phase, less rich in an undesirable compound in the aqueouseffluent, for example air or oxygen, can be injected or distributed intothe bottom of the column. The gas phase can be distributed in the columnin the form of bubbles where the volume of the bubbles increases withupward movement such that a mixed liquid/gas stream is obtained at or atabout the top of the column. The mixed liquid/gas stream can beseparated into a liquid stream constituting the treated aqueous phaseand an offgas stream enriched with the undesirable gaseous compound. TheVAL system can be characterized in that the mixed liquid/gas stream canbe separated under vacuum by establishing a gas headspace between theliquid stream and the gas stream and by aspirating the gas stream.

Embodiments of the VAL systems can function like a siphon, where aliquid stream that has been separated from an offgas stream canconstitute a downflow liquid column. The downflow liquid column can beobtained by overflow of the mixed liquid/gas stream above a high pointof the inner tube. In such embodiments, the downflow liquid column canbe associated with a photobioreactor for further treatment of thestream.

The examples discussed herein are examples only and are provided toassist in the explanation of the apparatuses, devices, systems, andmethods described herein. None of the features or components shown inthe drawings or discussed below should be taken as mandatory for anyspecific implementation of any of these apparatuses, devices, systems,or methods unless specifically designated as mandatory. For ease ofreading and clarity, certain components, modules, or methods may bedescribed solely in connection with a specific figure. Any failure tospecifically describe a combination or sub-combination of componentsshould not be understood as an indication that any combination orsub-combination is not possible. Also, for any methods described,regardless of whether the method is described in conjunction with a flowdiagram, it should be understood that unless otherwise specified orrequired by context, any explicit or implicit ordering of stepsperformed in the execution of a method does not imply that those stepsmust be performed in the order presented but instead may be performed ina different order or in parallel.

Example embodiments described herein can improve the functionality ofexisting VAL systems as a retrofit, or the like. For example, VALsystems may have limited control and/or usefulness in particularapplications that may be improved by embodiments or features associatedwith the embodiments described herein.

A VAL computer system can be used to control the VAL systems describedherein. The VAL system can be monitored, controlled, accessed, or thelike via any suitable technique, such as via a web-browser such asSAFARI, OPERA, GOOGLE CHROME, INTERNET EXPLORER, or the like executingon a client device. In some embodiments, the systems and methodsdescribed herein can be a web-based application or a stand-aloneexecutable. Additionally, in some embodiments, the systems and methodsdescribed herein can integrate with various types of water managementsystems, such as waste management, nutrient sources, photobioreactors,and the like. Any suitable client device can be used to access, orexecute, the VAL computing system, such as laptop computers, desktopcomputers, smart phones, tablet computers, and the like.

Systems and methods described herein may generally provide a constantsource of treated water for the growth of organisms. Interaction withthe VAL systems and any associated computer system may include, withoutlimitation, keyboard entry, writing from pen, stylus, finger, or thelike, with a computer mouse, or other forms of input (voice recognition,etc.). The VAL system interface may be presented on a tablet, desktop,phone, board, or paper. The VAL computer system can be a personalcomputer, or one or multiple computers in a server-type system, forexample.

In one embodiment, VAL systems can be used to improve the dissolved gasextraction yield of an air lift. In general, various embodiments relateto a method for treating an aqueous effluent comprising at least onedissolved gaseous compound, for example carbon dioxide, and at leastpartially separating the compound from the effluent in order to obtain atreated aqueous phase. The depleted aqueous phase may be depleted of theundesirable compound.

Embodiments described herein may provide an improved method oftreatment, degasification, or degassing of a recirculated aqueous mediumfor culturing a living organism. Generally, such systems can include abath of the aqueous medium in which the living organism is cultivatedand an effluent stream, from which the aqueous effluent is obtained, canbe tapped off from the bath. The bath can be supplied with a feedstream, obtained from a treated aqueous phase, where the treated aqueousphase can be obtained outside the bath of aqueous medium by degassingthe aqueous effluent under vacuum. With regard to the separation of themixed liquid/gas stream, “vacuum” can mean any pressure lower than thevalue obtained by subtracting, for example in cm water, the height ofthe upflow liquid column from the atmospheric pressure, or hydraulicpressure of the aqueous effluent to be treated.

Referring now to FIG. 1 , one embodiment of an aquaculture facility 40can be organized around a bath 13 of aqueous medium, in which the livingorganism of interest, for example fish, can be cultured or bred. Aneffluent stream 15 can be tapped off from the bath 13, mechanicallyfiltered 27, and sent to a buffer tank 28. A recirculation loop 29 canbe established from the buffer tank 28, for converting the nitrogeneffluent, particularly ammonia, by the enzymatic or bacterial method, tonitrite and nitrate. For this purpose, a stream can be withdrawn fromthe buffer tank 28, optionally supplemented 33 with fresh water, heatedin a heat exchanger 30, sterilized 31 by UV radiation, then filteredusing a bacterial bed 32, and finally returned to the buffer tank 28.The aqueous effluent 16 to be treated can be obtained from the buffertank 28.

A treatment installation 1 can include extracting or removing thedissolved gases in a gas stream 19, including carbon dioxide, nitrogen,or the like. The treatment installation 1 can receive the aqueouseffluent 16 and can generate a treated solution that is degassed fromwhich a feed stream 17 can be reintroduced into the bath 13. As theaqueous medium passes through the treatment installation 1 it can bedepleted of dissolved gases that can be removed with the gas stream 19by the elution or “stripping” action in accordance with embodimentsdescribed herein. This can be achieved by injection of a gas phase 10,which can be air, and which can be poorer in carbon dioxide and/ornitrogen than the aqueous effluent 16. Part of the aqueous effluent 16introduced into the treatment installation 1 may be obtained directlyfrom the bath 13. The bath 13 can receive nutrients 34 for the growthand development of the cultured living organisms and a purge of nitrates35 can be regularly carried out.

Referring to FIG. 2 , one embodiment of an installation 100 for aqueouseffluent treatment is shown. The installation 100 can be used inconjunction with an aquaculture bath 113. The installation 100 caninclude a vacuum column 101 that can include two concentric tubes, anexternal tube 102 and an internal tube 103, where the external tube 102and internal tube 103 can be coaxial and can have a verticalorientation. The internal tube 103 can define an internal chamber 104,which may be tubular, for an upflow liquid column 106 and the externaltube 102 can define an external chamber 105, which can be tubular, for adownflow liquid column 107. A top of the external tube 102 can be closedwith a cap 130, where the cap 130 can be above the open upper end 132 ofthe internal tube 103, such that the external chamber 105 can besubstantially closed and isolated from the atmosphere.

The installation 100 can include an inlet 108 for introducing theaqueous effluent 116 to be treated, which can be positioned at a bottomof the internal chamber 104. The installation 100 can include an outlet109 for removing the treated aqueous phase at the bottom of the externalchamber 105. An inlet 110 can be operably configured for injecting anddistributing a gas phase, such as pressurized air, into the upflowliquid column 106, where the inlet 110 can be connected to a source ofpressurized gas phase (not shown). An outlet 111 for removing an offgasstream can be provided, where the offgas stream can be enriched withgaseous compound previously dissolved in the aqueous effluent. Theoffgas stream can be connected to an aspiration system 112 that caninclude an air pump (not shown). This installation 100 can facilitatethe treatment of the aqueous effluent 116 by removing undesirabledissolved gaseous compound(s), such as carbon dioxide, by separating thecompounds at least partially from the effluent. Once the compounds areat least partially, substantially, or wholly removed the aqueoussolution can be returned to the aquaculture bath 113.

During operation, still with reference to FIG. 2 , the upflow liquidcolumn 106 of aqueous effluent 116 can be established in the internalchamber 104. The gas phase can be injected through the inlet 110 intothe internal chamber 104, at about the bottom of the internal chamber104 for example, where the gas phase delivered through the inlet 110 canbe poorer in an undesirable compound than the aqueous effluent 116. Forexample, the inlet 110 can deliver a gas phase including pressurized airor oxygen, where the gas phase can be distributed in the internalchamber 104 in the form of bubbles (not shown) such that the volume ofthe bubbles increases as they move upwardly. In this manner asubstantially homogeneous mixed liquid/gas stream 118 can be obtained atabout the top of the installation 100. The homogeneous mixed liquid/gasstream 118 can be separated into a liquid stream 117, constituting thedownflow liquid column 107 in the external chamber 105, which can beobtained by overflow of fluid above the open upper end 132 of theinternal tube 103. The mixed liquid/gas stream can also be separatedinto an offgas stream 119, which can be enriched with the undesirablegaseous compound from the aqueous effluent 116 for removal.

In one embodiment of the installation 100, in the upper part of theexternal chamber 105, a gas headspace 120 can be established between theliquid stream 117 and the offgas stream 119, corresponding to theseparation of the homogeneous mixed liquid/gas stream 118. The gasheadspace 120 can be under vacuum because of the aspiration of theoffgas stream 119 by the aspiration system 112, in one embodiment. Inthis manner, the vacuum column can operate like a siphon, as shown inFIG. 2 , where the downflow liquid column 107 and the upflow liquidcolumn 106 can be concentric, the upflow liquid column 106 beinginternal, and the downflow liquid column 107 being external. It will beappreciated that the relationship and function of the downflow andupflow columns can be reversed.

The installation 100 can include the following features, which can beconsidered separately or in combination with one another. The processingcycle can include introducing aqueous effluent 116 at the bottom of theupflow liquid column 106 and tapping the treated aqueous phase at thebottom of the downflow liquid column 107. In addition to injected air,oxygen 121 can be injected and distributed in the upflow liquid column106. The oxygen 121 can be provided in an upper half of the upflowliquid column 106, in an upper third of the upflow liquid column 106,above the inlet 110, or at any other suitable position. The oxygen 121injection can serve, if desirable, to complete the oxygenation of theaquaculture aqueous medium. Ozone 122 can be injected if desirable, forexample, to sterilize the aqueous medium, decompose humic acids, andrestore the redox potential of the aqueous medium. Ozone 122 can beinjected and distributed in the downflow liquid column 107. The ozone122 can be introduced at a lower level than the inlet 110, in a bottomthird of the downflow liquid column 107, and/or in a bottom half of thedownflow liquid column 107. In one embodiment, the cross-section orwidth of the downflow liquid column 107 can increase from an upper endto a lower end.

The offgas stream 119 can be in the form of foam, where a foam removalsystem 123 can be provided, to obtain a liquid exudate 124. The liquidexudate 124 can include a particulate fraction, for example, of organicmatter in suspension or in colloidal form, and an offgas 126 free ofliquid phase and solid particles can be separated. The liquid exudate124 can be removed by a pump 125. The offgas 126 can be pumped by theaspiration system 112, where suction can be facilitated in the gasheadspace 120 of the external chamber 105 to create a vacuum.

As shown in FIG. 2 , the effluent stream 115, from which the aqueouseffluent 116 to be treated is obtained, can be tapped off from theaquaculture bath 113. The aquaculture bath 113 can be supplied with aliquid stream 117, or feed stream, obtained from, or identical to thetreated aqueous phase, the latter being obtained outside the aquaculturebath 113 from the aqueous effluent 116, according to the treatmentmethod carried out in accordance with versions described herein. Thelevel of withdrawal 134 from the aquaculture bath 113 can besubstantially the same as that of the bottom of the upflow liquid column106. The feed level 136 of the aquaculture bath 113 can be above thebottom of the downflow liquid column 107.

Referring to FIG. 3 , an alternate version of an installation 200 isshown. Example embodiments in accordance with installation 200 canprovide the capability to independently control water circulation rateand particle extraction rate for a VAL system. It may be advantageous toprovide a VAL system, such as installation 200, that can be optimizedindependently for water circulation rate and particle extraction rate.The highest particle extraction efficiency generally occurs at low watercirculation rates while the lowest extraction efficiency generallyoccurs at a high-water circulation rate. It may be advantageous toprovide a system where one factor is not compromised to improve on theother factor.

An installation 200 of a vacuum air lift tower (VALT), such as shown inFIG. 3 , can be a plastic or fiberglass structure from about 12 feet toabout 16 feet tall, for example. It will be appreciated that any heightof the installation 200 is contemplated such as from about 10 feet toabout 20 feet tall, from about 5 feet to about 25 feet tall, or anysuitable height. In the illustrated embodiment, the installation 200 caninclude a fluid upflow tube 206, a fluid downflow tube 207, and an innertube 238, where the fluid upflow tube 206, fluid downflow tube 207, andinner tube 238 can be concentric and can include a cap 230 at a top ofthe installation 200. The installation 200 can include a water inlet 208at the bottom of the fluid upflow tube 206 and a water outlet 209 at abottom of the fluid downflow tube 207. Air (or other gases) can be fedto the inner tube 238 via a micro-bubble airlift 240. The air can becontrolled with a valve 241. Air (or other gases) can be fed to thefluid upflow tube 206 via a macro-bubble airlift 242. The air can becontrolled with a valve 243. A vacuum pump 225 can be connected to anevacuation tank 223 or holding tank. The evacuation tank 223 can beconnected to the cap 230 at the top of the installation 200. Levelsensors can be used to control water levels. Additional valves can beused to manage system airflow and extracted product.

As shown, the installation 200, can include a concentric fluid upflowtube 206 and a fluid downflow tube 207. The fluid upflow tube 206 candraw water, or other fluid, from a source tank (e.g., aquaculture bath113 of FIG. 2 ) and up the fluid upflow tube 206. The water can then bereturned to the source tank by flowing down an external chamber 205defined between the fluid upflow tube 206 and fluid downflow tube 207.The vacuum pump 225 can be connected to a chamber 220 at the top of theinstallation 200 to draw the water up the fluid upflow tube 206, aidedby a macro-bubble airlift 242 and/or micro-bubble airlift 240 that canbe associated with the fluid upflow tube 206. The rising air bubblesfrom aerators such as the macro-bubble airlift 242 and/or micro-bubbleairlift 240 can provide hydraulic lift that can facilitate carbondioxide/oxygen exchange. In addition, the bubbles can cause a foamingaction in the water that can collect micro-particulates or pathogensthat can be carried to the top of the installation 200, such as into thechamber 220, where they can be transferred to the evacuation tank 223 bya vacuum created with the vacuum pump 225.

Still referring to FIG. 3 , the inner tube 238 can be incorporated intothe installation 200 to allow independent control of particle extractionflowrate via the micro-bubble airlift 240 and circulation flowrate viathe macro-bubble airlift 242. Water can be drawn up the inner tube 238by the micro-bubble airlift 240 where particulates can be captured bythe micro-bubbles and extracted by the vacuum into the evacuation tank223. Water can be drawn up the fluid upflow tube 206 by the macro-bubbleairlift 242. At the top of 232 of the fluid upflow tube 206, water canoverflow into the external chamber 205 and return to the source tank(e.g., aquaculture bath 113). The micro-bubble airlift 240 and themacro-bubble airlift 242 can be controlled independently, such as by therespective valve 241 and valve 243, allowing the micro-bubble airlift240 and the macro-bubble airlift 242 to be optimized for the applicationrequirements.

The inner tube 238 can be extended above the fluid upflow tube 206 tomaintain some separation of the particle extraction and circulation flowstreams. By separating the top of the inner tube 238 and the fluidupflow tube 206, the tendency to re-entrain particles in the circulationstream by co-mingling may be reduced. The inner tube can extend anysuitable distance above the top 232 of the fluid upflow tube 206, suchas from about 6 inches to about 12 inches, from about 8 inches to about16 inches, from about 3 inches to about 10 inches, from about 1 inch toabout 12 inches. Liquid from a particle extraction stream 246 can stillbe allowed to spill over the inner tube 238 and into a circulationstream of the fluid upflow tube 206. Particle extraction foam andstripped gases from the circulation stream can still rise and beextracted into the evacuation tank 223 by the vacuum, in one embodiment.Aerators, such as the macro-bubble airlift 242 and/or micro-bubbleairlift 240, can be located vertically in the inner tube 238 and/orfluid upflow tube 206, for example, as needed to optimize circulationand particle extraction efficiency.

It will be appreciated that the installation 200 can include anysuitable features, sensors, valves, pumps, tanks, or the like asdesirable. For example, it may be beneficial to include a first levelsensor 250 associated with the evacuation tank 223. The first levelsensor 250 can be associated with a tank drain valve 252, where theevacuation tank 223 can be drained when a threshold level of fluidand/or waste has accumulated. The installation 200 can include a secondlevel sensor 254 that can be associated with the chamber 220 defined bythe cap 230. The second level sensor 254 can monitor the fluid levels toensure that the installation 200 is operating properly. The installation200 can include a vacuum pump/holding tank isolation valve 256 as wellas a vacuum release valve 258.

Independently controlled aerators can be incorporated into theinstallation 200 to provide micro and macro-bubble aeration in both theinner tube 238 and the fluid upflow tube 206, which can allow for agreater range of functionality. Embodiments can provide optimization ofwater circulation and particle extraction functions for greater energyefficiency. Independent control of water circulation and particleextraction may improve overall VAL system performance. Independentcontrol of water circulation can eliminate other water circulationtools, such as paddlewheels, which can improve system efficiency andreduce capital investment and operating costs. Independent control ofparticle extraction can allow compensation for times of increasedparticle density such as, for example, after feeding in aquaculture orduring harvest in alga-culture applications

Referring to FIG. 4 , an alternate embodiment of an installation 300 fora multi-function water treatment device is shown. Embodiments of theinstallation 300 can provide water circulation, dissolved gasextraction, aeration, de-nitrification, Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD)and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) reduction, particulate extraction andmicrobe extraction, and combinations thereof. Incorporating features ofthe installation 300 into a VAL system can provide de-nitrification andcomplete oxygen demand reduction. Incorporating a biological filter suchas a Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR) in the VAL can also provide asubstantially complete multi-function capability.

The installation 300 can include a fluid upflow tube 306, a fluiddownflow tube 307, and a cap 330. Embodiments can include a water inlet308 at or near a bottom of the fluid upflow tube 306 and a water outlet309 at or near the bottom of the fluid downflow tube 307. Air (or othergases) can be fed to the fluid upflow tube 306 via a first aerator 340associated with a first control valve 341 and a second aerator 342associated with a second control valve 343. The first control valve 341and the second control valve 343 can be used to control the airflowthrough the first aerator 340 and the second aerator 342, respectively.A vacuum pump 325 can be connected to a holding tank 323. The holdingtank 323 can be connected to the cap 330 at the top of the fluid upflowtube 306 and the fluid downflow tube 307. Any suitable level sensors canbe used to control water levels. Valves can be used to manage systemairflow and extracted product.

MBBR elements 360 or other biological filters can be contained withinthe fluid upflow tube 306. The MBBR elements 360 can each have anextended projected surface having a biofilm, for example. Examples ofconfigurations can include batch harvest and continuous operationalmodes. It will be appreciated that any suitable configuration, biofilm,and the like is contemplated.

Referring to FIG. 5 , an alternate embodiment of an installation 400 fora multi-function water treatment device is shown. Embodiments of theinstallation 400 can provide water circulation, dissolved gasextraction, aeration, de-nitrification, Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD)and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) reduction, particulate extraction andmicrobe extraction, and combinations thereof. Incorporating features ofthe installation 400 into a VAL system can provide de-nitrification andcomplete oxygen demand reduction. Incorporating a biological filter suchas a Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR) in the VAL can also provide asubstantially complete multi-function capability.

The installation 400 can include a fluid upflow tube 406, a fluiddownflow tube 407, and a cap 430. Embodiments can include a water inlet408 at or near a bottom of the fluid upflow tube 406 and a water outlet409 at or near the bottom of the fluid downflow tube 407. Air (or othergases) can be fed to the fluid upflow tube 406 via a first aerator 440associated with a first control valve 441 and a second aerator 442associated with a second control valve 443. The first control valve 441and the second control valve 443 can be used to control the airflowthrough the first aerator 440 and the second aerator 442. A vacuum pump325 can be connected to a holding tank 423. The holding tank 423 can beconnected to the cap 430 at the top of the fluid upflow tube 406 and thefluid downflow tube 407. Any suitable level sensors can be used tocontrol water levels. Valves can be used to manage system airflow andextracted product.

MBBR elements 460, where the MBBR elements 460 can be marginallybuoyant, can be contained in the fluid downflow tube 407. The buoyancyof the MBBR elements 460 can resist the downward flow of the waterpouring out the top 432 of the fluid upflow tube 406, which can suspendthe MBBR elements 460 in the fluid flow within the external chamber 405.In certain embodiments, biological filters (such as MBBR elements 360)can be contained in the fluid upflow tube 406. For example, the firstaerator 440 and second aerator 442 combined with rising water flow cansuspend the MBBR elements (e.g., MBBR elements 360) in the fluid upflowtube 406. It will be appreciated that installation 300 and installation400 can be combined such that MBBR elements can be contained in both thefluid upflow tube 406 and the fluid downflow tube 407 to maximizebio-filter capacity.

The MBBR elements 460 can include a biofilm (bacteria, for example) thatcan provide a high-rate biodegradation of waste products resulting inde-nitrification, Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) reduction and ChemicalOxygen Demand (COD) reduction. VAL systems incorporating theinstallation 300 and/or the installation 400 can have an integratedbiological filter such that the installations can provide watercirculation, dissolved gas extraction, aeration, de-nitrification,Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) reduction, Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD)reduction, particulate extraction, and microbe extraction.

Incorporation of MBBR elements (e.g., MBBR elements 360, 460) canprovide the aeration (oxygen) needed for desirable biological reaction.This high-density population of bacteria can provide a high-ratebiodegradation of wastes within the associated VAL system. Aerators(e.g., first and second aerators 440, 442) can provide the oxygen neededfor the biological reaction and agitation of the MBBR elements to ensureeffective mixing and distribution of the influent waste, oxygen, andbiofilm media. Additional aerators can be incorporated to compensate forthe biochemical or chemical oxygen demand. More MBBR elements can beutilized in a VAL for a given footprint due to the water column createdby the vacuum which can be an improvement over existing system. The MBBRelements (e.g., MBBR elements 360, 460) can increase the dwell time andmixing of injected air which can improve gas exchange. Air lift pumpsmay be more efficient than traditional pumps in low head applications.Use of a vacuum (negative pressure) can require less energy thancompressed airflow and may make embodiments described hereinadvantageous.

Biological filter elements can be incorporated in the fluid upflow tube406 and/or fluid downflow tube 407. Water circulation through the MBBRfilter can be accomplished with the low power input of a VAL system, inone embodiment. Foam fractionation from micro-bubble aeration and vacuumextraction of the foam can remove sloughed off MBBR element byproducts.Flow cross section (diameter) of any suitable component, such as thefluid upflow tube 406 and/or fluid downflow tube 407, can be increasedto compensate for reduction in flow area caused by filter elements. Theflow drag created by the MBBR elements (e.g., MBBR elements 360, 460)can be compensated for by increasing the diameter of the fluid upflowtube 406, the fluid downflow tube 407, and/or any other associatedtubes, chambers, or the like that may be utilized. Additional aeratorscan be incorporated to satisfy increased oxygen demand.

In one embodiment, two or more systems or installations can be connectedin series or parallel, where each of the systems can be identicallyconfigured, differently configured, or designed for a specificobjective. Alternatively, a single VAL system, such as the installationsdescribed herein, can be vertically partitioned, for example, tooptimize for specific functions. The number of filter elements can beincreased or decreased to match a wide range of biological loads.Placement and quantity of MBBR elements (e.g., MBBR elements 360, 460)can be tailored to individual applications to allow for processoptimization. It will be appreciated that other biological filters canbe utilized instead of MBBR elements.

Numerous advantages can be associated with a system incorporating one ora plurality of MBBR elements as illustrated with respect to installation300 and installation 400. Incorporation of MBBR elements (e.g., MBBRelements 360, 460) in a VAL system can provide the aeration (e.g., usingthe first and second aerators 440, 442) that may be needed for certainbiological reactions. More MBBR elements can be utilized in a VAL systemfor a given footprint due to the large vertical water column created bythe vacuum. Such systems can provide more complete aquaculture andsewage or waste water treatment solutions at lower power input and lowerinvestment and operating costs. Embodiments described herein can providemulti-function capability in a single assembly, system, installation, orthe like. Embodiments can simplify the system construction andoperation, which can decrease acquisition and operational costs.Embodiments can provide low energy mechanisms to aerate, remove carbondioxide, circulate water, agitate biological elements, and removewastes. Embodiments can be sustainable and environmentally friendly as aresult of low energy input, water re-use, and elimination of the needfor chemical additives. Extracted biomass, including particulates,removed from the circulating stream, and sloughed off MBBR product canbe utilized in biofuel applications or as a nutrient in agricultureapplications.

Referring to FIG. 6 , embodiments of an installation 500 can facilitateparticle extraction and gas exchange in a VAL system by incorporating afluidic oscillator 570 in a micro-bubble diffuser 572 (see FIGS. 7A and7B). The micro-bubble diffuser 572 can be a porous polyethylenemicro-bubble diffuser. It may be advantageous to produce micro-bubblesfor gas exchange and particle extraction in freshwater applications.This is due to the higher bubble detachment force that may be requiredin freshwater applications versus seawater applications. Such systemsmay be useful in freshwater sources as gas exchange and particulateextraction are generally inversely proportional to micro-bubble size.

The installation 500 can include a plastic or fiberglass structureapproximately 12 to 16 feet tall. The installation 500 can include afluid upflow tube 506, a fluid downflow tube 507, and a cap 530.Embodiments can include a water inlet 508 at or near a bottom of thefluid upflow tube 506 and a water outlet 509 at or near the bottom ofthe fluid downflow tube 507. Air (or other gases) can be fed to thefluid upflow tube 506 via a first aerator 540 associated with a firstcontrol valve 541 and a second aerator 542 associated with a secondcontrol valve 543. The first control valve 541 and the second controlvalve 543 can be used to control the airflow through the first aerator540 and the second aerator 542. A vacuum pump 525 can be connected to aholding tank 523. The holding tank 523 can be connected to the cap 530at the top of the fluid upflow tube 506 and the fluid downflow tube 507.Any suitable level sensors can be used to control water levels. Valvescan be used to manage system airflow and extracted product.

In example embodiments, the first aerator 540 can have a fluidicoscillator 570 or bi-stable valve that alternates flow pulses toseparate chambers of a porous polyethylene diffuser. The vacuum pump 525that can be connected to the chamber 520 at the top of the installation500 can draw the water up the fluid upflow tube 506 by a second aerator542 (e.g., a macro-bubble aerator) and/or a first aerator 540 (e.g., amicro-bubble aerator) at or near the bottom of the fluid upflow tube506. In the same general manner as an aquarium pump, the rising airbubbles can provide hydraulic lift and can cause carbon dioxide and/oroxygen exchange. In addition, the bubbles can cause a foaming actionthat can collect micro-particulates or pathogens and can carry them tothe top of the installation 500 (e.g., the chamber 520), where they canbe transferred to the holding tank 523 by the vacuum created by thevacuum pump 525.

In one embodiment, referring to FIGS. 7A and 7B, the first aerator 540can have a fluidic oscillator 570 or bi-stable valve that can alternateflow pulses to separate chambers of the micro-bubble diffuser 572 suchas in a porous polyethylene diffuser. Air can be drawn into the firstaerator 540 by the vacuum pump 525 or any other suitable pump. The aircan enter the fluidic oscillator 570, where alternating pulses of aircan be discharged into separate chambers of the first aerator 540. Thepulsed air can pass through the micro-bubble diffuser 572 creating andreleasing micro-bubbles, where the micro-bubbles can travel through thefluid upflow tube 506, for example. The micro-bubbles can cause gasexchange with the water and can also collect particles. The degree ofgas exchange and particle extraction can be inversely proportional tothe micro-bubble size. The fluidic oscillator 570 or bi-stable valve canproduce micro-bubbles approximately an order of magnitude smaller usingthe same micro-bubble diffuser 572.

It will be appreciated that the first aerator 540 is shown by way ofexample only, where different diffuser styles or materials could beutilized. Pressurized air can be supplied to the first aerator 540 toincrease air flow rate. As described, it may be advantageous to providethe incorporation of a fluidic oscillator for micro-bubble generation ina VAL system, where micro-bubble generation may improve gas exchange,micro-particle extraction, and/or microbe extraction in such a system.This increased effectiveness may reduce energy consumption, broaden therange of applications of a VAL system, and eliminate or diminishchemical usage in freshwater applications.

Embodiments can include the use of any suitable diffuser such as aporous polyethylene diffuser in conjunction with a fluidic oscillator.Embodiments can incorporate a porous cylindrical diffuser and fluidicoscillator to create a continuous flow bi-stable valve micro-bubblegenerator. Using a fluidic oscillator to partition a cylindricaldiffuser into two semi-circular cross section chambers can allow acontinuous flow and may eliminate parasitic losses associated with flowmanagement for separate diffusers. Such a configuration can helpmaximize the efficiency of the micro bubble generation and theeffectiveness of the VAL in gas exchange and particle extraction.

Use of a vacuum and/or negative pressure can be used to generate flowthrough a fluidic oscillator using any suitable features or components.Incorporation of a fluidic oscillator can greatly decrease micro-bubblesize, which can improve gas exchange and particle extraction due to thesignificant increase in surface area relative to the total volume of aircompared to larger bubbles (area is proportional to radius squared,Volume is proportional to radius cubed). The fluidic oscillator orbi-stable valve can produce micro-bubbles approximately an order ofmagnitude smaller using the same diffuser. Embodiments of the fluidicoscillator may have no moving parts which can make it inherentlyreliable. The fluidic oscillator may reduce energy consumption by, forexample, 18% compared to traditional continuous flow diffusers.Embodiments described herein may be sustainable and environmentallyfriendly as a result of low energy input, water re-use, and no chemicaladditives in some embodiments. Use of a porous polyethylene diffuser inconjunction with a fluidic oscillator may be beneficial. The porouspolyethylene diffuser can provide a low-pressure differential media forgeneration of the microbubbles. Use of a porous cylindrical diffuser andfluidic oscillator to create a continuous flow bi-stable valvemicro-bubble generator may be beneficial. Using a fluidic oscillator topartition a cylindrical diffuser into two semi-circular cross sectionchambers can allow a continuous flow and can eliminates parasitic lossesassociated with flow management for separate diffusers, which in turncan maximize the efficiency of the micro bubble generation and theeffectiveness of the VAL system in gas exchange and particle extraction.Use of a vacuum and/or negative pressure to generate flow through afluidic oscillator can improve fluidic oscillator stability.

Referring to FIG. 8 , one embodiment of an installation 600 is shown,where the installation 600 can be an aqueous effluent treatment andphotobioreactor installation. Any photobioreactor, fluidized bedreactor, or the like, is contemplated. The installation 600 can be usedin conjunction with an aquaculture bath, alga-culture raceway, or pond,for example, or with any other fluid or fluid retainer. The installation600 can include a vacuum column that can include two verticallyoriented, concentric tubes, an external tube 607 and an internal tube606. The internal tube 606 can define the internal chamber 104 for anupflow of fluid and the external tube 607 can define an external chamber605 for a downflow column of fluid. The external tube 607 can be closedin its upper part, above the open upper end of the internal tube 606,such that the external chamber 605 can be substantially closed andisolated from the atmosphere.

The installation 600 can include an inlet 608 for introducing theaqueous effluent 616 to be treated, which can be positioned at or nearthe bottom of the internal chamber 604. The installation 600 can includean outlet 609 for transitioning the aqueous phase at the top of theexternal chamber 605 to a photobioreactor 680. An inlet 640 can beconfigured for injecting and distributing a gas phase, such aspressurized air, into the internal tube 606, where the inlet 640 can beconnected to a source of pressurized gas (not shown). An outlet 611 forremoving the offgas stream can be provided, where the offgas stream canbe enriched with gaseous compound previously dissolved in the aqueouseffluent. The offgas stream can be connected to an aspiration system 682that can include an air pump 625. The installation 600 can facilitatethe treatment of the aqueous effluent 616 by removing undesirabledissolved gaseous compound(s), such as oxygen, by separating thecompounds at least partially from the aqueous effluent 616. Theinstallation 600 can further facilitate treatment of the aqueouseffluent 616 by incorporating the photobioreactor 680. Once thecompounds are at least partially, substantially, or wholly removed, theaqueous solution can be returned to, for example, an aquaculture bath oralga-culture raceway. As illustrated, the photobioreactor 680 can have aserpentine configuration or any other configuration.

With reference to FIG. 8 , an upflow liquid column of aqueous effluent616 can be established in the internal chamber 104. An inlet 640 can beused to inject air or gas into the internal chamber 604, where the gasprovided through the inlet 640 can be poorer in an undesirable compoundthan the aqueous effluent 616. For example, the gas coming through theinlet 640 can include pressurized air or carbon dioxide, where the inlet640 can distribute the gas to the internal chamber 604 in the form ofbubbles (not shown) such that the volume of the bubbles can increase asthey move upward through the internal chamber 604. In this manner, asubstantially homogeneous mixed liquid/gas stream 684 can be obtained atabout the top of the installation 600. The mixed liquid/gas stream 684can be separated into a liquid stream, constituting a downflow liquidcolumn in the external chamber 605, obtained by overflow of theabovementioned mixed stream above the edge or high point of the internaltube 606. The mixed liquid/gas stream can also be separated into theoutlet 611 enriched with the undesirable gaseous compound from theaqueous effluent for removal.

In one embodiment of the installation 600, in the upper part of theexternal chamber 605, a gas headspace 620 can be established between theliquid stream and the gas stream, corresponding to the separation of themixed liquid/gas stream 684. The gas headspace 620 can be under vacuumbecause of the aspiration of the gas stream by the air pump 625, in oneembodiment. In this manner, the vacuum column can operate like a siphon,as shown in FIG. 8 , with the internal tube 606 being internal, and theexternal tube 607 being external. It will be appreciated that therelationship and function of the downflow and upflow columns can bereversed in an alternate embodiment. The installation 600 can includethe following features, which can be considered separately or incombination with one another. The aqueous effluent 616 can be introducedat the bottom of the internal tube 606 and the initially treated aqueousphase can proceed from the external tube 607 into the photobioreactor680.

Still referring to FIG. 8 , it will be appreciated that any suitablephotobioreactor 680 is contemplated. The photobioreactor 680 can be avertically or horizontally configured assembly that can providebacterial degradation and algae photosynthetic assimilation of suspendedand dissolved minerals and/or nutrients in the water being treated. Theinstallation 600, including a photobioreactor 680 can provide a lowenergy, sustainable method for water treatment and reuse. Exampleembodiments can have a relatively small physical footprint, can berelatively easy to protect from environmental damage, and can offerimproved performance as a result of optimized solar insolation. Exampleembodiments can diminish seasonal variation in solar insolation and canimprove performance as a result of optimized gas injection. Thesynergistic integration of the photobioreactor 680 can increase theflexibility in selecting the physical configuration of the installation600 and can allow for optimization of the total system function.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 8 , the external chamber 605 cantransition to a photobioreactor 680 that is vertically oriented. Theexternal tube 607 can be fluidically coupled with the photobioreactor680 and can return to the tank and/or inlet 608. The photobioreactorprocess according to one embodiment is illustrated in the block diagramshown in FIG. 9 . The photobioreactor 680 can replace the traditionalsecondary through quaternary sewage management processes with a single,simpler process. The flow from the external tube 607, which can containthe nutrients carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorous along with othercontaminants, can flow into the photobioreactor 680. In thephotobioreactor 680, a synergistic process that can include micro-algalphotosynthesis and bacterial oxidation can occur. Using the incomingflow from the external tube 607, sunlight, and CO2 produced by thebacteria, algae associated with the photobioreactor 680 can producebiomass and oxygen. The bacteria using the oxygen produced by the algaecan digest or breakdown the compounds in the waste stream. This processcan continue until the nutrients have been converted to biomass. Thisprocess may be beneficial in the neutralization of pathogens such asfecal coliforms by using the combination of exposure to sunlight, higheroxygen levels, and higher pH levels that may be inherent in the process.The process may also be beneficial as metals can be absorbed by thebiomass.

Referring to FIG. 10 , an alternate embodiment of an installation 700 isshowing with a photobioreactor 780 according to one embodiment. Tubes786 within the photobioreactor 780 can be oriented vertically as shown,horizontally, or in a combination thereof to optimize water flow withrespect to pressure drop characteristics. Although the photobioreactor780 is shown associated with an outlet 709 positioned at about the topof the installation 700, it will be appreciated that any other suitableposition is contemplated. For example, the outlet 709 can be positionedat lower positions on the external tube 707 to optimize system flowversus pressure characteristics.

Referring to FIG. 11 , an alternate embodiment of an installation 800 isshowing with a photobioreactor 880 according to one embodiment. One or aplurality of tubes 886 associated with the photobioreactor 880 can beoriented at an angle as shown to facilitate exposure to light or solarrays. The photobioreactor 880 can be positioned at any suitable anglefor maximum solar insolation such as from about 30 degrees to aboutdegrees, from about 10 degrees to about 85 degrees, from about 25degrees to about degrees, or any other suitable angle.

Versions of installations or assemblies can be constructed as a closedloop to limit evaporation and limit potential contamination. Someembodiments can include the counter flow injection of gases, which canbe performed at a point above the base level to reduce compressor powerrequirements as a result of partial vacuum conditions. Embodiments canbe optimized for seasonal consistency of solar insolation. Embodimentscan have the ability to maximize solar insolation per unit of area.Embodiments can have the ability to inject counter flow gases as theyare depleted to optimize dissolution efficiency. Embodiments can providea relatively smaller footprint yielding improved space efficiency.

Embodiments can have the ability to incorporate a protective coverwithout restricting solar insolation. The protective cover can preventsnow or ice accumulation on the photobioreactor tubes, can prevent haildamage, and can help keep birds and other animals away from the systemto reduce the potential for environmental damage. Embodiments canoptimize water circulation, gas exchange, biomass extraction, bacterialoxidation, photosynthetic assimilation, and water purification functionsto provide improved energy efficiency. It will be appreciated that theinstallations described herein associated with photobioreactors can beused with any suitable VAL system. Example embodiments can provide thecapability to independently control water circulation rate and particleextraction rate for a VAL system.

In general, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art thatat least some of the embodiments described herein can be implemented inmany different embodiments of software, firmware, and/or hardware. Thesoftware and firmware code can be executed by a processor or any othersimilar computing device. The software code or specialized controlhardware that can be used to implement embodiments is not limiting. Forexample, embodiments described herein can be implemented in computersoftware using any suitable computer software language type, using, forexample, conventional or object-oriented techniques. Such software canbe stored on any type of suitable computer-readable medium or media,such as, for example, a magnetic or optical storage medium. Theoperation and behavior of the embodiments can be described withoutspecific reference to specific software code or specialized hardwarecomponents. The absence of such specific references is feasible, becauseit is clearly understood that artisans of ordinary skill would be ableto design software and control hardware to implement the embodimentsbased on the present description with no more than reasonable effort andwithout undue experimentation. Moreover, the processes described hereincan be executed by programmable equipment, such as computers or computersystems and/or processors. Software that can cause programmableequipment to execute processes can be stored in any storage device, suchas, for example, a computer system (nonvolatile) memory, an opticaldisk, magnetic tape, or magnetic disk. Furthermore, at least some of theprocesses can be programmed when the computer system is manufactured orstored on various types of computer-readable media.

In various embodiments disclosed herein, a single component can bereplaced by multiple components and multiple components can be replacedby a single component to perform a given function or functions. Exceptwhere such substitution would not be operative, such substitution iswithin the intended scope of the embodiments.

Some of the figures can include a flow diagram. Although such figurescan include a particular logic flow, it can be appreciated that thelogic flow merely provides an exemplary implementation of the generalfunctionality. Further, the logic flow does not necessarily have to beexecuted in the order presented unless otherwise indicated. In addition,the logic flow can be implemented by a hardware element, a softwareelement executed by a computer, a firmware element embedded in hardware,or any combination thereof.

The foregoing description of embodiments and examples has been presentedfor purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to beexhaustive or limiting to the forms described. Numerous modificationsare possible in light of the above teachings. Some of thosemodifications have been discussed, and others will be understood bythose skilled in the art. The embodiments were chosen and described inorder to best illustrate principles of various embodiments as are suitedto particular uses contemplated. The scope is, of course, not limited tothe examples set forth herein, but can be employed in any number ofapplications and equivalent devices by those of ordinary skill in theart. Rather it is hereby intended the scope of the invention to bedefined by the claims appended hereto.

What is claimed is:
 1. A vacuum airlift system for treating an aqueouseffluent comprising: a. an upflow liquid column, the upflow liquidcolumn having a top and a bottom, a vertical orientation, a diameter,and a height, wherein the upflow liquid column is configured to retain afluid; b. a fluid inlet, the fluid inlet being fluidly coupled with theupflow liquid column, wherein the fluid inlet is positioned at about thebottom of the upflow liquid column; c. a downflow liquid column, thedownflow liquid column having a top and a bottom, a verticalorientation, a diameter, and a height; d. a fluid outlet, the fluidoutlet being fluidly coupled with the downflow liquid column, whereinthe fluid outlet is positioned at about the bottom of the downflowliquid column; and e. a plurality of aerators fed by one or more fluidicoscillators, wherein the plurality of aerators being coupled to theupflow liquid column; wherein the upflow liquid column is co-axial withthe downflow liquid column.
 2. The vacuum airlift system of claim 1,wherein the diameter of the downflow liquid column is greater than thediameter of the upflow liquid column.
 3. The vacuum airlift system ofclaim 1, wherein the height of the upflow liquid column is greater thanthe height of the downflow liquid column.
 4. The vacuum airlift systemof claim 4, wherein the one or more fluidic oscillators are positionedwithin a porous cylindrical diffuser to create a continuous flowbi-stable valve micro bubble generator that eliminates parasitic lossesassociated with flow management for separate diffusers.
 5. The vacuumairlift system of claim 1, further comprising a biological filterpositioned in the upflow liquid column or the downflow liquid column,the biological filter being operably configured to facilitate abiological or chemical process.
 6. The vacuum airlift system of claim 1,wherein the plurality of aerators comprises a first aerator having acontrol valve.
 7. The vacuum airlift system of claim 1, wherein theplurality of aerators comprises a first aerator, wherein the firstaerator is a micro-bubble aerator fluidly coupled with the upflow liquidcolumn.
 8. The vacuum airlift system of claim 7, wherein the pluralityof aerators further comprises a second aerator, wherein the secondaerator is a macro-bubble aerator fluidly coupled with the upflow liquidcolumn.
 9. The vacuum airlift system of claim 9, wherein the firstaerator is positioned above the second aerator in the upflow liquidcolumn.
 10. The vacuum airlift system of claim 1, further comprising alow-pressure differential diffuser in conjunction with the one or morefluidic oscillators.
 11. The vacuum airlift system of claim 1, furthercomprising a gas headspace above the top of the upflow liquid column, anoffgas stream fluidly coupled with the gas headspace, and a vacuum pump,wherein the vacuum pump is operably configured to create a vacuum in thegas headspace.
 12. A vacuum airlift system for treating an aqueouseffluent comprising: a. an upflow liquid column having a plurality ofupflow liquid tubes, each upflow liquid tube of the plurality of upflowliquid tubes having a top and a bottom, a vertical orientation, adiameter, and a height, wherein each upflow liquid tube of the pluralityof upflow liquid tubes is configured to retain a fluid; b. a fluidinlet, the fluid inlet being fluidly coupled with the upflow liquidcolumn, wherein the fluid inlet is positioned at about the bottom of theupflow liquid column; c. a first aerator, the first aerator beingfluidly coupled with the upflow liquid column, wherein the first aeratoris operably configured to deliver a gas phase to the upflow liquidcolumn such that a plurality of bubbles is formed within the upflowliquid column, wherein the first aerator is fed by a fluidic oscillator;d. a downflow liquid column, the downflow liquid column having a top anda bottom, a vertical orientation, a diameter, and a height; e. a fluidoutlet, the fluid outlet being fluidly coupled with the downflow liquidcolumn, wherein the fluid outlet is positioned at about the bottom ofthe downflow liquid column; f. a gas headspace above the top of theupflow liquid column; g. an offgas stream fluidly coupled with the gasheadspace; and h. a vacuum pump, wherein the vacuum pump is operablyconfigured to create a vacuum in the gas headspace.
 13. The vacuumairlift system of claim 15, wherein the diameter of the downflow liquidcolumn is smaller than the diameter of the upflow liquid column.
 14. Thevacuum airlift system of claim 15, wherein the height of the upflowliquid column is greater than the height of the downflow liquid column.15. The vacuum airlift system of claim 15, wherein the fluidicoscillator is positioned within a porous cylindrical diffuser.
 16. Thevacuum airlift system of claim 15, wherein the fluidic oscillator ispositioned in a diffuser having a diffuser outlet, and wherein a vacuumor negative pressure at the diffuser outlet generates flow through thefluidic oscillator and improves fluidic oscillator stability.
 17. Thevacuum airlift system of claim 15, wherein the first aerator is amicro-bubble aerator.
 18. The vacuum airlift system of claim 17, furthercomprising a second aerator, wherein the second aerator is amacro-bubble aerator fluidly coupled with the upflow liquid column. 19.The vacuum airlift system of claim 15, further comprising a biologicalfilter positioned within one or more of the pluralities of upflow liquidtubes or within the downflow liquid column, the biological filter beingoperably configured to facilitate a biological or chemical process. 20.A vacuum airlift system for treating an aqueous effluent comprising: a.an upflow liquid column, the upflow liquid column having a top and abottom, a vertical orientation, a diameter, and a height, wherein theupflow liquid column is configured to retain a fluid; b. a fluid inlet,the fluid inlet being fluidly coupled with the upflow liquid column,wherein the fluid inlet is positioned at about the bottom of the upflowliquid column; c. a first aerator, wherein the first aerator is operablyconfigured to deliver micro-bubbles to the fluid; d. a second aerator,wherein the second aerator is operably configured to delivermacro-bubbles to the fluid; e. a fluidic oscillator feeding the firstaerator or the second aerator; f. a downflow liquid column having aplurality of downflow liquid tubes, each downflow liquid tube of theplurality of downflow liquid tubes having a top and a bottom, a verticalorientation, a diameter, and a height, wherein the diameter of thedownflow liquid column is greater than the diameter of the upflow liquidcolumn, wherein the height of the upflow liquid column is greater thanthe height of the downflow liquid column; g. a fluid outlet, the fluidoutlet being fluidly coupled with the downflow liquid column, whereinthe fluid outlet is positioned at about the bottom of the downflowliquid column; h. a gas headspace above the top of the upflow liquidcolumn, wherein the gas headspace is defined at least partially by acap; i. an offgas stream fluidly coupled with the gas headspace; j. avacuum pump, wherein the vacuum pump is operably configured to create avacuum in the gas headspace; and k. an evacuation tank associated withthe offgas stream.